Angel Mounds is the site of a pre-historic Native American settlement. The Mississippian culture were noted mound builders (raised earth hills with flat tops), and this site includes several mounds that archaeologists believe were used for ceremonial purposes and perhaps as homes for prominent members of the community. The settlement also included a stockade wall that guarded three sides of the site. The fourth side was bounded by the Ohio River. Additionally, a waterway called a slough ran around the village and offered protection and probably transportation.
This site was the largest settlement of its time (1100 to 1450 A.D.) in what is present day Indiana. Estimates range from 1000 to 3000 inhabitants during the settlements peak. Archaeologists have proposed that this village may have been a centralized source of power and influence for a series of smaller Mississippian settlements across Indiana and parts of Illinois.
Angel Mounds- Southern Indiana
History
Angel Mounds is the site of a pre-historic Native American settlement. The Mississippian culture were noted mound builders (raised earth hills with flat tops), and this site includes several mounds that archaeologists believe were used for ceremonial purposes and perhaps as homes for prominent members of the community. The settlement also included a stockade wall that guarded three sides of the site. The fourth side was bounded by the Ohio River. Additionally, a waterway called a slough ran around the village and offered protection and probably transportation.
This site was the largest settlement of its time (1100 to 1450 A.D.) in what is present day Indiana. Estimates range from 1000 to 3000 inhabitants during the settlements peak. Archaeologists have proposed that this village may have been a centralized source of power and influence for a series of smaller Mississippian settlements across Indiana and parts of Illinois.
Angel Mounds is a National Historic Landmark
Visiting
Angel Mounds is open year round and has special events and programs throughout the year.
There is a museum and visitors center.
The site is actively excavated by Indiana University.